When I run linux on my Macbook with T2 chip, the system is frozen

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When I run linux on my Macbook with T2 chip, the system is frozen

I would like to run linux on my Macbook Air 2019 from a flash drive. Of course, I turned off the T2 chip and turned on the option to start another system. Everything worked as planned except for the actual use of the system. You can't move the mouse and the system can't be controlled. I tried to create a bootable flash drive using several programs and using a terminal, but the system still did not work. Does anyone know what the problem might be? (Yes, I know I can run the system through virtualization, but I'd like to run it from a flash drive).

MacBook Air 13″, macOS 12.1

Posted on Dec 19, 2021 6:38 AM

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Answer 1

Dec 19, 2021 8:13 PM in response to Tomas_koci

Hi Tomas_koci,

If Linux successfully booted on your Mac, then the issue is likely beyond the T2 Security Chip. You'll need special drivers compatible with Linux that enable your peripherals to work properly, such as your trackpad, keyboard, etc. As mentioned by HWTech, native Linux support on Macs is spotty.

Does it work to use an external mouse and keyboard when running Linux?

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Answer 2

Dec 19, 2021 12:54 PM in response to Tomas_koci

Linux support for Apple USB-C Macs is spotty at best. Here are a couple of sites showing was is working/not working on USB-C Macs:

https://github.com/Dunedan/mbp-2016-linux

https://gist.github.com/roadrunner2/1289542a748d9a104e7baec6a92f9cd7

https://t2linux.org/

At this time you are much better off installing Linux into a Virtual Machine. Definitely do not install Linux on the same internal drive as macOS for a number of reasons. If you must install Linux to bare metal, then install Linux to an external USB3 drive to minimize the danger to macOS.

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When I run linux on my Macbook with T2 chip, the system is frozen

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